Over the past ten years the work of Isaac Bignell has become a huge influence in his delicious use of line, colour and subject matter. He was from northern Manitoba, not too far south of where I grew up, and was basically a self taught artist.

"My art is strongly influenced by the traditional ways of my people. I was brought up to live off the land from an early age. Hunting and trapping, living in harmony with the earth has taught me to respect the animals and the spirit and power of nature.I hoop dance and sing Pow Wows to maintain my cultural heritage. Through art and dancing I attempt to influence native people to continue their cultural ways; the gift that was given to us by the Great Spirit."